Illustration til Johan Krohn, "Peters jul" 1870

F. Hendriksen created this illustration for Johan Krohn's "Peters jul," a Danish Christmas story, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century. The story and illustrations, such as this one, reflect the era's emphasis on family, religion, and national identity. This particular illustration presents a blend of Christian and national symbols. The angel, star, and cross entwined with lilies evoke religious narratives of innocence, guidance, and resurrection. The hymn lyrics printed on the page stress the importance of home and family, highlighting the cultural values of the time. It's hard to ignore the implicit construction of childhood innocence and national identity. The image offers a nostalgic, idealized vision of Danish Christmas, a space shaped by shared cultural memory. The emotional resonance of this image, like the story itself, invites viewers to partake in a collective cultural experience.